The Scotchy Bourbon Boys

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Dive into our tasting of Larrikin Distillery's 124.2 proof Single Barrel bourbon with special guest Knobs, Tiny's son who offers a beginner's perspective on high-proof whiskey.

• Larrikin Distillery brings Australian spirit to Kentucky bourbon, founded by Greg Keely who served in both US and Australian navies
• "Larrikin" means a mischievous but good-hearted person who lives life to the fullest
• This 8-year single barrel (124.2 proof) features a mash bill of 75% corn, 21% rye, and 4% barley
• Flavor profile includes caramel, tart apple, and a dry chardonnay-like finish
• Father and son taste test revea...

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Metallica's Blackened Whiskey and other celebrity spirits are more than marketing gimmicks, offering quality products with innovative aging techniques. Music-inspired whiskeys like Blackened use sonic enhancement processes where sound waves cause barrels to vibrate, extracting unique flavors from the wood.

• Comparison of Blackened Whiskey (90 proof, finished in brandy casks) and Wes Henderson White Port Cask Finish (116.2 proof)
• Explanation of Blackened's "Black Noise" process that uses low-frequency sound waves to enhance flavor extraction
• Discussion about the purpose of celebrity whiskeys and their appropriate proof points for concert settings
• Tasting notes fo...

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The Scotchy Bourbon Boys taste and review the 2025 Bombergers Declaration PFG bourbon from Michter's, scoring it an impressive 16.5/18 on their barrel bottle breakdown. This limited-edition bourbon showcases Michter's innovative "Precision Fine Grain" finishing process, resulting in a complex, rich, and deeply flavorful whiskey experience worth its premium price point.

• Tiny shares his experience with the Steel Valley Bourbon Association charity event that raised $750 for the Kids Charity Foundation
• Discussion of Michter's history and the team's previous visits with Master Distiller Dan McKee
• Detailed explanation of Bombergers' history and connection to the...

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Bourbon groups, societies, and clubs across the globe have become the driving force behind whiskey's surging popularity, creating communities that offer education, camaraderie, and exclusive experiences. From Facebook groups with thousands of members to elite membership clubs offering barrel picks, these organizations have transformed whiskey appreciation from a solitary pursuit into a vibrant social experience.

• Facebook groups help connect whiskey enthusiasts worldwide and have tripled in number since the bourbon boom began
• Local clubs offer regular meetups, tastings, educational events with distillery representatives, and charity fundraisers
• Premium membership clubs like O...

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The economics of whiskey pricing involves numerous factors that determine why bourbon costs what it does, from physical aspects of aging to market demands and consumer preferences.

• Quality and quantity are fundamental considerations in whiskey pricing
• Age significantly impacts cost due to taxes, warehouse space, and liquid loss through evaporation
• Temperature fluctuations affect yield as cold weather expands barrels pushing liquid outward while heat contracts wood drawing whiskey into staves
• Barrel strength whiskeys command higher prices because they aren't diluted, resulting in fewer bottles from the same amount of aged...

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We explore Kentucky's vibrant bourbon scene, highlighting unique experiences at Whiskey Thief Distilling Company and New Riff Distillery while previewing our upcoming fifth annual Kentucky Bourbon Bus Tour.

• Whiskey Thief Distilling offers farm-to-glass experiences at Three Boys Farm in Frankfort and a tasting room in New Lou
• Their unique barrel stations let visitors thieve their own bottles from pot-distilled bourbons and ryes
• New Riff Distillery sits strategically on the Kentucky-Ohio border, in the same area where George Remus operated during Prohibition
• Founded by former Party Source owner Ken Lewis, w...

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The bourbon glut is over, with distilleries reporting exceptional sales and Kentucky Bourbon Festival tickets selling out in just four days rather than months.

• Pandemic caused a temporary slowdown as society reopened and people returned to busier lifestyles
• Political uncertainty during election year contributed to consumer hesitation
• Kentucky Bourbon Festival 2025 completely sold out in four days instead of taking until August
• Secondary market for allocated bottles like Weller has changed as collectors have already acquired them
• Bourbon enthusiasts now seeking unique barrel picks rather than just allocated bottles

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Bernie Lubbers, Heaven Hill's bourbon ambassador, shares insider knowledge on the distillery's operations, history, and production scale while discussing their impressive portfolio of whiskeys.

• Heaven Hill produces 1,500 barrels daily, operates around 70 rickhouses, and maintains 2.1 million barrels in inventory
• The Shapira family has maintained ownership for nearly 90 years, with three generations actively running the business
• Time is the most expensive ingredient in bourbon production, requiring foresight and patience for investments that take decades to mature
• Heaven Hill has preserved historic bourbon brands like JTS Brown, JW Dant, and Rittenhouse Rye thro...

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Derby week energizes Kentucky as bourbon enthusiasts and horse racing fans gather for the 151st Run for the Roses, with Woodford Reserve maintaining its tradition of commemorative bottles featuring special artwork.

• Weather forecast predicts heavy rain for Derby Day, dramatically changing race conditions and creating opportunities for mudders
• The bourbon industry shows strong recovery after last year's temporary slowdown, with more limited releases hitting shelves
• Buffalo Trace Antique Collection and other allocated bottles becoming more available across states as production increases
• Woodford Reserve Derby bottles maintain the same quality...

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We revisit bourbon history with a special tasting of a 1981 Old Taylor bourbon, which reveals the fascinating journey of this historic brand from Colonel EH Taylor through National Distillers to Jim Beam and eventually back to Buffalo Trace.

• Old Taylor transitioned from its original distillery (now Castle & Key) to Jim Beam production in the 1970s
• This 1981 bottle represents the Jim Beam era when they used their 75% corn/13% rye/12% barley mash bill
• Despite being only 86 proof and 6 years old, this dusty bottle achieves a perfect 18/18 on our rating system
• The prof...

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Yellowstone Bourbon honors America's first national park while exploring the rich history behind this iconic brand that dates back to 1872. Stephen Beam, descending from two legendary distilling families, revived this historic label through Limestone Branch Distillery, continuing a tradition that survived Prohibition and multiple ownership changes.

• One dollar from every bottle sold supports Yellowstone National Park
• The brand was one of only six distilleries permitted to sell medicinal whiskey during Prohibition
• Stephen Beam founded Limestone Branch in 2010, merging his family heritage with modern distilling
• Limestone Branch began with just one...

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The Scotchy Bourbon Boys dive deep into Maker's Mark's Wood Finishing Series, comparing the 2024 Heart Release and 2025 Keepers Release while exploring the brand's evolution from its wheated bourbon origins to its innovative stave-finishing techniques.

• Wood Finishing Series represents Maker's Mark's expanding approach to bourbon making through French oak stave finishing
• Heart Release (111.7 proof) showcases the distillery team with fruit-forward notes of caramel, maple and chocolate
• Keepers Release (109.3 proof) honors the warehouse teams with bold oak and toasted sweetness characteristics
• The Maker's Mark Ambassador Program allows fans to follow a barrel...

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This batch of Booker's, named "Barry's Batch" in honor of former Beam CEO Barry Berish, delivers a remarkably smooth drinking experience despite its 125.7 proof, with rich caramel, peanut butter, and warm spice notes creating a perfect fireside sipper.

• First Booker's release of 2025 (Batch 2501) honoring Barry Berish, former Beam chairman who passed away in early 2024
• Aged 7 years, 2 months, 4 days with barrels from five different warehouse locations
• Classic Jim Beam mash bill: 77% corn, 13% rye, 10% malted barley
• Exceptional caramel-forward aroma with notes of peanut butter on the nose
• Drinks smoother than its 1...

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The Kentucky Bourbon Festival has transformed from a small event with 9 distilleries to a premier bourbon celebration featuring 62 distilleries, with exclusive releases and direct access to master distillers. KBF President Randy Prasse shares how the festival has evolved to focus on authentic experiences connecting bourbon enthusiasts with the people who make their favorite spirits.

• Festival started in 1991 and has grown to become the #1 bourbon festival Globally.
• Distilleries now view the festival as the perfect venue to reveal new products and limited releases
• For 2025, the festival will feature improved layout and di...

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The rich and storied tradition of challenge coins has made its way from military culture into bourbon communities, creating meaningful connections among enthusiasts and marking achievements in the whiskey world.

• Challenge coins originated with WWI pilots but became popular during Vietnam War
• Different types of bourbon challenge coins include Stave & Thief Bourbon Steward certification, Kentucky Bourbon Festival commemorative coins, and community recognition coins
• Coins must be carried at all times - you get only four steps to retrieve it during a challenge
• If challenged and you can't produce your coi...

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Tiny shares his experience with Gervasi Vineyard and Distillery, his local Canton, Ohio establishment that has evolved from a winery to include an award-winning distillery producing exceptional bourbons and spirits.

• Founded in 2008, Gervasi began as a winery and restaurant before expanding to include villas, event venues, and recently a distillery
• The Gervasi Stillhouse features both a working distillery and a coffee shop/cocktail lounge in a building resembling an Italian church
• Shae Pridemore, Gervasi's master distiller, has released their first Single Barrel Bourbon at 116.9 proof to critical acclaim
• Their bo...

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The Jack Daniels Triple Mash offers a uniquely sweet whiskey experience by combining three different mash bills in a way that challenges expectations of the Jack Daniels brand. This innovative expression earned 14 out of 18 knocks in our barrel bottle breakdown, making it a standout bottle at the $40 price point.

• Triple Mash combines 60% Tennessee Rye, 20% Tennessee Whiskey, and 20% American Malt
• First-ever release containing Jack Daniels' American Malt (100% malted barley)
• Exhibits notes of Sugar Smacks cereal, maple syrup, caramel, and hazelnut
• Noticeably sweeter than traditional Jack Daniels products without being artifici...

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Knob Creek 9 Year serves as both an incredible value at $35 and a meaningful journey marker for bourbon enthusiasts seeking authentic whiskey experiences without breaking the bank.

• Knob Creek was established in 1992 as part of Jim Beam's small batch collection created by Booker Noe
• The name pays homage to Abraham Lincoln's childhood home in Kentucky
• After temporarily losing its age statement in 2016 due to inventory shortages, the 9-year age statement proudly returned in 2020
• The classic mash bill consists of 75% corn, 13% rye, and 12% malted barley
• Knob Creek's single barrels come in at...

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The Scotchy Bourbon Boys taste and compare Stagg Jr. and Stagg bourbons, tracing the evolution from the "Junior" designation to simply "Stagg" and examining whether quality changed with the name.

• Stagg described as "the perfect man's bourbon" - barrel-proof with power but exceptionally balanced
• Multiple batches of Stagg released in 2024 (A through D) showing increased availability 
• Comparing Stagg Jr. batch 12 (130.9 proof) with newer Stagg batches reveals consistent quality
• Buffalo Trace maintains the signature brown sugar and cherry flavor profile across all batches
• Bourbon availability generally improving with Buffalo Tra...

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Tonight's episode dives deep into the world of double oak and toasted oak bourbon, exploring the science and flavor differences between various finishing techniques. We examine what sets apart barrel finishing methods and why they create such distinct flavor profiles in your favorite bourbons.

• Woodford Double Oak stands as our benchmark for the category—butterscotch and caramel notes with exceptional availability
• Peerless offers both Toasted and Double Oak expressions with higher proof points and distinct character differences
• French oak versus American oak creates notably different sweetness profiles, with French impartin...

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Martin and Pat transformed a friendship at Burns Pub in Columbus into Bua, an exceptional Irish whiskey brand that competes with giants while maintaining local Ohio roots. Their Black Label expression, finished in Irish stout barrels at 94 proof, offers a unique sipping experience that showcases how Irish whiskey creates perfect harmony with barrel finishes compared to bourbon's typically more dominant base spirit.

• Bua Irish Whiskey started when Pat (bar owner) and Martin (Tullamore Dew rep) dreamed of creating their own brand
• The White Label expression (123 proof) is an OHLQ single barr...

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Amanda Humphrey takes us behind the scenes at Star Hill Farm, home of Maker's Mark, where tradition meets innovation across 1,100 acres of working farmland. We explore how this iconic bourbon brand is pioneering sustainable practices while maintaining their founder's vision through innovative wood-finishing techniques and an uncompromising commitment to flavor.

• Amanda's journey from London bartender to Maker's Mark advocacy and experience leader
• The importance of terroir in bourbon and how 86% of ingredients come from the local area
• Using 55 beehives, Wagyu cattle, and a truffle-hunting dog to create a self-sustaining farm

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The legacy of Elmer T. Lee lives on through his namesake single barrel bourbon, where we compare the newest 2025 release with a 2019 bottle to explore how this iconic whiskey maintains its high standards over time.

• Elmer T. Lee was Buffalo Trace's fourth master distiller who revolutionized bourbon by launching Blanton's in 1984 as the first modern single barrel bourbon
• The 2025 Elmer T. Lee delivers exceptional nose with caramel, vanilla, and oak notes, scoring 15/18 in our barrel bottle breakdown
• Comparing 2019 vs 2025 releases shows the newer bottle has more pronounced flavors while the ol...

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This episode dives into everything March means for bourbon lovers, exploring the unique dynamics between whiskey releases and the excitement of basketball season, dubbed "March Madness." We also touch on the anticipation within the Ohio whiskey community around recent drops and the impact of Irish whiskey during the festive season.  

• Discussing why March is such a pivotal month for whiskey enthusiasts  
• Overview of major bourbon releases and anticipated drops  
• Celebrating the vibrant bourbon community in Ohio  
• Exploring the crossover between whiskey and Irish spirits  
• Tasting reviews...

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The episode dives into the captivating journey of Irish whiskey, featuring the unique storytelling of Waterford distillery. We explore the blend of terroir and innovation, along with tasting evaluations of various expressions. 

• Introduction of Rosewood Bourbon and its revival 
• Tasting notes and insight into Waterford whiskey 
• Exploration of whiskey aging and its impact 
• Detailed evaluation and scoring of flavors 
• Promotion of local Ohio whiskey tasting events 
• Insights on the evolution and growing popularity of Irish whiskey 
• Conversation about new releases and their market availability 
• Conclusion summarizing t...

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The episode explores the fascinating journey of American Highway Reserve, a bourbon that travels the U.S. in a Rolling Rick House and gains distinct flavors from diverse climates. Tiny break down tasting notes, discuss their barrel banging rating system, and share personal insights into the bourbon experience, emphasizing the connection of good spirits to friendship and culture. 
• Introduction to American Highway Reserve 
• Personal struggles and updates on hosting the podcast 
• Overview of the unique Rolling Rick House aging process 
• Flavor profile discussion with tasting notes 
• Explanation of the barrel bang...

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Whiskey Thief Distilling is on the brink of an exhilarating transformation with new distribution plans and unique experiences for whiskey enthusiasts. The hosts discuss the distillery's upcoming special releases, the importance of consumer engagement, and the anticipated Whiskey Thief Guild, fostering a deeper connection with their fan base.

• Launching limited self-distribution in 41 states  
• Emphasizing quality over awards in whiskey production  
• Enhancing tasting room experiences with barrel picks  
• Anticipating the October Whiskey Fest with potential food pairing  
• Teasing the new Whiskey Thief Guild for fan engagement

Ima...

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This episode connects the art of distilling with the rich narratives woven into craft spirits. We explore the revival of rye whiskey, innovative techniques, and the sense of community that drives the craft distilling movement forward. 

• Legacy of Pennsylvania rye whiskey and its revival
• Artistic techniques in distillation explored 
• The role of heritage in recipe development 
• Community support among distillers 
• Unique methods leading to innovative spirits 
• Storytelling as a marketing strategy in craft distilling 

Join us on a spirited journey through the rich world of...

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The episode dives into the bourbon resurgence, focusing on accessible brands and the unique story ofSweetens Cove 22 We explore what's currently available on the shelves, emphasizing exciting finds like Sweetens Cove 22 and a new barrel rating system to assist listeners in their bourbon journeys. 


• Significant price drops and current accessible shelf options 
• Observation on the changing trends in the bourbon market 
• Tasting and analysis of Sweetens Cove 22 
• Introduction to the Barrel Bang Rating System

Join us on a flavorful expedition through the world of bourbons and whiskeys...

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This episode dives into the world of Traveler Whiskey, a collaborative project between Chris Stapleton and Buffalo Trace’s master distiller Harlen Wheatley. We explore the history behind this whiskey, its unique blend, market dynamics, and what this means for both casual drinkers and whiskey connoisseurs alike.

• Introduction to Rosewood Bourbons and Rye 
• Personal updates and podcast logistics 
• Overview of Traveler Whiskey and its significance 
• History of Buffalo Trace Distillery and its reputation 
• The uniqueness of Traveler’s secret blend 
• Discussions on whiskey making and transparency 
• Tasting notes an...

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We explore the fascinating journey of Middle West Spirits and its commitment to crafting exceptional whiskey using local grains. The episode delves into the distillation process, history, and unique flavor profiles of their various whiskey expressions while celebrating their innovative spirit and community roots.

• Introduction to Middle West Spirits' philosophy 
• Background on Ryan Lang and his family's distilling legacy 
• Overview of the distilling and production process 
• Tasting and review of wheat whiskey, wheated 4 grain bourbon, and dark pumpernickel rye 
• Discussion on the double cask collection and innovative finishes 
...

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Craft distilling in Ohio is thriving, with Midwest Spirits paving the way for unique whiskey flavors. The episode dives deep into the process of aging, blending, and the importance of local agriculture while highlighting upcoming innovations and products. 

• The evolution of Midwest Spirits through COVID  
• The significance of understanding international palates  
• Aging and consistency challenges in whiskey production  
• Insights into barrel selection and its impact on flavor  
• Preview of exciting new releases from Midwest Spirits

Discover the secrets behind the success of Middle West Spirits as we sit down...

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This episode explores the vibrant journey of Penelope Whiskey, highlighting its innovative approaches and unique finishes within today’s competitive bourbon landscape. The hosts engage in a detailed tasting of various expressions, and their lively banter adds a rich layer of experience for listeners.

• Introduction to Penelope Whiskey and its significance 
• Insights on the acquisition by MGP 
• The impact of MGP's resources on Penelope's growth 
• Tasting session of Four Grain and Havana finishes 
• Comparison between the 9-Year and 10-Year Estate Collection 
• Discussion of the X Project and consumer involv...

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This episode explores creative solutions for dealing with whiskeys and bourbons that listeners no longer enjoy. From humorous disposal methods to inventive cocktail ideas, the hosts guide listeners through various entertaining options, highlighting community input and the spirit of experimentation.  
• Introduction of the episode theme  
• Discussion on “drain pour” vs. “toilet pour” methods  
• Importance of respecting craftsmanship behind whiskey  
• Suggestions for enhancing unwanted spirits with staves and aging kits  
• Community shared ideas for repurposing bad whiskeys  
• Focus on creative cocktails including Bloody Marys  
• Introduction to the concept of an infinitely blen...

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Discover the captivating journey of Shea Pridemore, master distiller at Jervasi Stillhouse, as he shares insights into the art of bourbon crafting, the unique challenges of distilling, and the flavors that define their spirits. With a focus on community engagement and education, Shea invites listeners to explore the fascinating world of craft distilling.

• Introduction to Shea Pridemore and Jervasi Stillhouse 
• Discussion of challenges in starting a distillery 
• Tasting of eight-year weeded bourbon and flavor profiles 
• Importance of sourcing quality barrels for finishing 
• Insights on barrel finishing techniques and flavor dev...

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Heaven's Door whiskey, co-founded by Bob Dylan, brings stories alive in every sip. This episode explores the unique flavors of Revival, Double Barrel, and Refuge rye, emphasizing how craftsmanship reflects storytelling through whiskey.

• Exploring the legacy of Bob Uecker and its influence
• Celebrating the podcast's rapidly growing community
• Tasting notes of Revival bourbon highlighting caramel and vanilla
• Discussing the complexity of Double Barrel whiskey blended with rye
• Emphasizing the sweet influence of sherry cask finishing in Refuge rye
• Connections between Bob Dylan's artistry and whiskey craftsmanship
• Import...

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.The episode explores the emerging concerns of scams within the whiskey community, emphasizing the importance of vigilance for bourbon enthusiasts. Key discussions include the realities of the secondary market, the red flags to identify online scams, and the need to build relationships with trustworthy sources to safeguard one's whiskey passion. 

• Scammers are prevalent in the whiskey world 
• The secondary market can lead to price gouging and unethical practices 
• Key signs to identify online scams and fraudulent sellers 
• Building relationships with reputable bourbon sellers is crucial 
• Understanding the value of authen...

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Bourbon shines as a distinct category of whiskey, celebrated for its compelling sweetness and adherence to specific production rules. We explore how bourbon differentiates itself from other whiskeys, such as Scotch and Irish, by focusing on its corn content, fermentation, and aging processes.

• Discussing the unique characteristics that define bourbon
• Overview of whiskey production rules, emphasizing a mash containing 51% corn
• The significance of fermentation temperatures and techniques 
• Importance of aging in new charred oak barrels 
• Exploring the concept of terroir and its impact on flavor 
• Comparing the distinctive...

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Benjamin Eaves, the head processor at Kentucky Artisan Distillery, offers a fascinating glimpse into the innovations and traditions of the whiskey world. Learn how whiskey tasting can be as intricate and rewarding as fine wine appreciation, These farm-to-glass experiences are just the beginning of our spirited journey, as Ben shares intriguing insights into Jefferson’s Oceans series and the artistry behind their wheated mash bills.

We also recount the transition from whiskey enthusiast to industry professional, a path paved with passion and collaboration. Discover how partnerships between Kentucky Artisan and Jefferson’s ha...

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This episode delves into the deep-rooted concept of integrity within the bourbon industry, focusing particularly on I.W. Harper 15-Year bourbon. We discuss the importance of honest reviews, personal experiences with tasting, and how honesty in endorsements fosters trust in the whiskey community.

• Examination of I.W. Harper's rich history and significance 
• Insights into the rarity and demand of age-stated bourbons 
• Discussion on the sensory experiences of tasting bourbon 
• The role of integrity in podcasting and whiskey reviews 
• Reflections on sponsorship and credibility within the industry 
• The journey of ne...